Syracuse, NY -- Trevor Cooney is trying to be patient. But the Syracuse University guard already waited last season during his redshirt year, to preserve four seasons of eligibility in what was once a crowded Orange guard situation.

And now, he waits again, this time because of the recovery period that followed surgery to remove his tonsils. Cooney, who had a tonsillectomy Oct. 19, was cleared last Thursday to work on his shooting. As the weekend progressed, he said, he was allowed to participate in SU's group position sessions and the 5-man drills that simulate fast break scenarios.

He anticipates being held out of contact situations for "a couple more days," though he's not sure about an exact timetable.

Cooney said his surgeon, SU athletic trainer Brad Pike and an SU doctor were collaborating to determine when Cooney could return to rough action. He said that same group will decide whether he can play in Thursday's exhibition vs. Pace in the Carrier Dome.

"I'd love to come back now," he said. "But it's their call. They know more about it than I do."

Cooney said he feels "really good," but medical personnel have warned him that there could be repercussions from returning to the basketball court too quickly.

"I guess something in here," he said, pointing to his throat, "could rupture and start bleeding. That's the worst-case scenario. I don't know the percentage of that happening, but that's what's holding me back."

Cooney acknowledged he's itching to start playing again. He's already deferred his dream for a season. The surgery has postponed his full immersion this season. And he anticipates he'll need to recover his conditioning once he is allowed to play again.

"I'll be behind schedule from where I want to be," he said, "but I can get that back quick."